Chief Executive Chris Loughlin helps with washing up

WaterCare is aimed at those in most need by helping them better manage their water use. Launched in April 2007, it grew out of a government pilot study in Plymouth and Penwith on how to practically help low income households struggling with their bills.

Taking early findings from the study, South West Water decided to introduce WaterCare to assist 7,500 qualifying customers over three years.

Water minister Phil Woolas recently highlighted WaterCare as an example of the way forward saying: "South West Water has responded very positively, and on its own initiative is now rolling out the measures more widely."

Under WaterCare, trained advisors from the independent Eaga Partnership meet with customers in their homes to offer a range of free measures including:

• Installing simple water saving devices such as tap flow restrictors and 'Hippos' to reduce toilet flush
• Assessing whether a water meter would help reduce their bill
• Benefit entitlement checks to make sure they are receiving all possible financial support
• More affordable payment plans tailored to their circumstances

So far, we've helped 1,439 customers and another 559 have been enrolled in the scheme. Our checks have found a good number of customers who could be entitled to extra benefits and support. On average, they could be receiving £35 more per week each with some able to claim backdated payments of hundreds of pounds.

We have also carried out 771 home water audits and installed 449 water-saving devices in homes. 

South West Water Chief Executive Chris Loughlin said: "We're pleased with the progress of WaterCare so far and are aiming to help thousands more over the next two years.

 "People have been very interested in finding out how they can conserve water and cut their bills. We have always understood that paying water bills can be a struggle for some customers. That's why we decided to offer WaterCare in addition to all the things we do already to help."

Qualifying customers for WaterCare are selected on their payment history by South West Water. Referrals from MPs, the Citizen Advice Bureau and charitable organisations such as Age Concern are also considered.